Needle and Syringe Exchange Scheme
A needle and syringe exchange scheme operates across Dorset to allow injecting drug users access to clean needles and syringes and to allow for the safe disposal of used needles and syringes. This service is offered at agencies and at certain pharmacies displaying the needle exchange logo.
To avoid the health risks associated with taking drugs, it is safer not to inject or to use alternative methods of taking drugs. However, some people are not in this position and therefore, to help protect their health and reduce the risk of passing on infections, sterile injecting equipment is made available free of charge to those who inject drugs.
Pharmacy needle exchanges can issue basic needle and syringe packs and collect used needle and syringes.
Agency-based needle exchanges offer a wider range of equipment in addition to further harm reduction advice and testing for blood-borne viruses and inoculation for hepatitis B.
Some basic and anonymous details will be asked for on the first visit. There will be an expectation for you to use your personal number at every exchange. This information helps us with the planning of services to meet the needs of our service users.
Needle and syringe exchange is available through selected pharmacies and agencies displaying the needle exchange sign (above).
Find the service for your area below:
